Explaining that, for one, “It’s hard to shoot babies and deal with babies on shows,” Pompeo instead wagers that “Derek and Meredith are going to continue to go through their struggles about being a couple and working together and all of that.”

Instead, Mer will be focusing her energies on being there for BFF Cristina (Sandra Oh) as she works through the PTSD she’s suffering as a result of the May finale’s shootings.

“It’s played brilliantly by Sandra. Her acting is impeccable, and the storyline is great for her,” Pompeo raves of her cast mate. “I think it’s a very entertaining first half of the season.”